Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp sung the praises of Jorg Schmadtke earlier this year as he closes on being appointed their new sporting director.

Schmadtke left VfL Wolfsburg in January with it now emerging Liverpool were in contact at the same time.

And during that month, Klopp remarked: “I would have liked to work with him (Schmadtke), I'm sure it would have worked out well.

“He's a top character, somebody who never changed in 38 years and stayed true to himself. He'll be missed by football."

Klopp also recalled: “I was 19 and had a dream of making it as professional.

“I went to a trial at Fortuna where Jorg was in goal and a very big name there. I put everything into it and ran like a devil but what can I say? I was a total flop.

“I guess Schmadtke remembered that. He never made me an offer (to coach) at any of his clubs. He must have thought, 'if Klopp can't play football, he can't be a decent manager either'!"